As we are in the final stages of our LMS transition, Spring 2012 is the last term that credit courses will be offered on eClass powered by Blackboard Vista. We encourage all instructors to run their courses on eClass powered by Moodle if at all possible. Instructors who require the ability to run Summer 2012 courses on eClass Vista can submit their requests to vpit@ualberta.ca.
The last date for instructors to access the eClass Vista system will be August 31, 2012. All static content (content pages, files) from eClass Vista will be backed up and available for migration to eClass Moodle via the course creation system. However, user-generated content (discussion posts, assignment submissions etc.) in eClass Vista will NOT be archived.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact ctl@ualberta.ca.
What is eClass?
eClass is the University of Alberta’s centrally supported learning management system (LMS) that is used to deliver our course websites.
Why the transition?
The current package that powers eClass, Blackboard Vista (formerly WebCT), is no longer going to be supported by the Blackboard Corporation as of January 2013. This gave us an opportunity for growth, and the decision was made to centrally adopt an open source LMS called Moodle to power eClass.
This transition will be a positive, transformative experience for the University of Alberta. It gives us the opportunity to maximize our resources and talents, and be leaders in teaching and learning. Welcome to the journey!
What can I do?
The transition to eClass powered by Moodle is coming to a close. We are currently running over 2300 courses in eClass Moodle this Winter 2012!
Rethink your online materials. The move to Moodle allows you the opportunity to grow and redevelop your online materials. For an overview, check out the Using Moodle section which includes tutorials and tip sheets as well as Level 1 & 2 training session videos. We also have a sample course that you can try out as well as documentation on the differences between Vista and Moodle to help you with the switch.
Make the switch. As we are in the final stages of our LMS transition, Spring 2012 is the last term that credit courses will run on eClass powered by Blackboard Vista. Users who require the ability to run Summer 2012 courses on eClass Vista can submit their requests to vpit@ualberta.ca. The last date for instructors to access the eClass Vista system will be August 31, 2012.
Contribute! The open source model allows us to work as a community to build a system that works for us. With your help, we will be continually developing and improving the way Moodle works. If you have any suggestions, questions or would like more information, do not hesitate to contact us.
Need a hand?
The Centre for Teaching and Learning is here to help! For troubleshooting, try referring to our Moodle KnowledgeBase, tutorials in Moodle 101 or submit a ticket by sending an email to ctl@ualberta.ca.
For urgent matters, give us a call at the Centre for Teaching and Learning (780) 492-9372.